Recap of the Leadership and Mentorship Training Week 2024
From April 2nd to April 5th 2024, Ecotourism Kenya opened its doors to a cohort of aspiring leaders and change-makers for an immersive Leadership and Mentorship Training Week. Over the course of four days, participants engaged in a rich tapestry of professional development and sustainability sessions, aimed at equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their professional journeys while championing environmental stewardship.
Professional Development: The training kicked off with a focus on professional development, delving into crucial topics such as effective communication in the workplace, workplace etiquette and ethics, professional well-being, and financial management 101. Participants gained insights into building strong interpersonal relationships, navigating workplace challenges, and nurturing their own holistic well-being. Additionally, sessions on school-work transition and cultural respect provided valuable guidance for navigating diverse environments with grace and sensitivity.
Sustainability Sensitization: Complementing the personal development track, the training also included sustainability sensitization sessions designed to deepen participants’ understanding of responsible tourism and environmental conservation. Through sessions on the fundamentals of responsible tourism, youth and climate change, environment management and awareness, and youth and biodiversity conservation, participants were empowered to become stewards of the planet. They explored practical strategies for integrating sustainability principles into their professional endeavors and fostering positive environmental change within their communities.
Throughout the week, participants were engaged in interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and collaborative exercises, fostering a supportive learning environment where ideas flourished and connections were forged. The training was not merely an educational experience but a transformative journey, empowering participants to become catalysts for positive change in their respective fields.
As the training week drew to a close, participants left Ecotourism Kenya’s offices equipped with newfound knowledge, skills, and a renewed sense of purpose. Armed with the tools of effective leadership, personal development, and sustainability consciousness, they are poised to embark on their professional journeys with confidence and commitment to making a difference in the world. Each set to enter the workspace to gain hands-on experience in the tourism field, we wish them the best!
Ecotourism Kenya extends its gratitude to all participants, trainers, and partners for their unwavering dedication and enthusiasm throughout the training week. Together, we are shaping a brighter, more sustainability-aware and proactive future for generations to come.
I entered the program with a firm belief in my chosen career path within the tourism industry. However, as I engaged in the training sessions and attachment period, I realized that being open-minded was essential for growth and adaptation. During the training sessions, one particular session that had a lasting impact on me was “The Art of Being Ready.” This eye-opening session emphasized critical thinking as a fundamental skill for success in any field. Moreover, the training introduced the concept of being SMART in my approach to work. By setting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound, I gained clarity on what I aimed to achieve and developed a structured plan to reach those objectives.
